In 2020, KBC Bank Ireland and the Tree Council of Ireland came together to launch the Team Blue Forest project, an initiative that saw the planting of 1,500 native Irish trees at Glencree, Co. Wicklow. The partnership reflected a shared commitment to environmental sustainability, biodiversity enhancement, and the creation of lasting ecological benefits for communities across Ireland.

For the Tree Council of Ireland, the project aligned closely with its mission to inspire and support the planting, protection, and conservation of Ireland’s trees. As part of its Green Compass sustainability strategy, KBC sought to take meaningful action to reduce its environmental footprint while contributing to the restoration of Ireland’s natural heritage. Together, the two organisations created a woodland that will continue to grow and deliver environmental benefits for generations to come.

The Glencree site was carefully selected, with the Tree Council of Ireland providing expertise in native species selection and woodland establishment. A diverse mix of native Irish trees, including oak, birch, rowan, and holly, was planted to enhance biodiversity, provide valuable habitat for wildlife, and strengthen the area's ecological resilience. As the woodland matures, it will continue to capture carbon, improve ecosystem health, and create a thriving habitat for birds, pollinators, and other native species.

The Team Blue Forest project stands as a lasting example of how collaboration between businesses and environmental organisations can deliver meaningful, long-term benefits for both people and nature. Through partnerships such as this, the Tree Council of Ireland continues to help create resilient native woodlands that protect Ireland’s biodiversity and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.